Deploy from Git
Build a Bootable ISO from a GitHub Repo
Paste a repository URL and turn app install instructions into a bootable Linux image.
OpenFactory can build a bootable ISO from a GitHub repository by treating the repo as an install source and the Linux image as the runtime environment. The result is not only source code; it is a bootable system that can carry services, dependencies, and tests.
How the Git-to-ISO flow works
- Paste a public GitHub repository URL and choose a Linux base such as Ubuntu, Debian, or Fedora.
- OpenFactory clones the repo into the image workspace and reads README, INSTALL, and linked setup docs when available.
- If install docs are incomplete, OpenFactory falls back to project markers such as Dockerfile, docker-compose, package.json, requirements.txt, go.mod, Cargo.toml, and Makefile.
- The build creates a Linux image that preserves the repo and includes the packages, services, and startup shape needed for validation.
When a bootable ISO is better than a container
Containers are ideal when you only need an app process. A bootable ISO is better when the operating system matters too: kernel modules, systemd units, local users, hardware access, VPN routing, full-machine monitoring, or deployment to a VM fleet.
Good first repositories
- A service with a Dockerfile and documented environment variables.
- A Python app with requirements.txt and a clear run command.
- A Node app with package.json scripts and a documented port.
- A Go or Rust service with a Makefile and systemd example.
For prompt-only builds, use the custom Linux ISO builder. For repeatable image governance, pair this workflow with the Linux image builder.
Frequently asked questions
Can a GitHub repository become a bootable ISO?
Yes, if the repository has enough installation information or project markers to package it into a Linux system. OpenFactory clones the repo, reads README and INSTALL docs, checks common markers like Dockerfile and package.json, and builds a Linux image around the app.
What project types work best?
Services with clear install docs, Dockerfiles, docker-compose files, package.json, requirements.txt, go.mod, Cargo.toml, Makefiles, or system packages are the best first candidates.
Is this the same as a Docker image?
No. A Docker image packages an application container. A bootable ISO packages an operating system that can boot as a VM or machine and include the application, services, users, networking, and validation steps.
Related OpenFactory pages
Custom Linux ISO builder
Build a bootable Linux image from a prompt, repo, or recipe.
Linux image builder
Treat operating system images as reviewed, testable artifacts.
Self-hosted app installer
Generate bootable app stacks for popular self-hosted services.
Developer resources
Connect OpenFactory workflows to APIs, MCP, and agent tooling.
Build the image instead of hand-assembling it
Use OpenFactory to turn the same requirements into a bootable, testable Linux system.